Starting with her first job as a legal advocate, Heather M. Gates has always been focused on breaking down barriers to health care.
When she became president and CEO of Community Health Resources (CHR) in 1993, the agency had a $3 million budget and employed about 80. Today, CHR provides a comprehensive system of care with an $85 million budget and nearly 1,000 employees.
In her current role, Gates works with an amazing team to oversee all clinical and administrative aspects of CHR, advocate fiercely on behalf of the thousands of children, families and adults served, and works hard to maintain a warm and welcoming culture systemwide.
What have been the biggest professional accomplishments in your career?
Throughout my career, I have been a part of efforts to improve access to services for those with mental health and substance-use challenges.
As the president and CEO of CHR, I have built one of the largest organizations in the state, serving over 25,000 children, families and adults every year. I am proud of our values and the quality of the services we offer to those most in need.
It is a major accomplishment to run a financially stable, large organization, given the uncertainties of funding year in and year out. CHR has been named a Top Workplace 12 years in a row, and I have been honored to receive the Top Leader award on three occasions.
I am proud to be a leader in our field and represent Connecticut nationally on the National Council for Mental Wellbeing board of directors as the first vice chair.
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In what ways are you involved in the community?
I am involved in the community through the work of CHR, engaging with community members about the needs of those we serve. I serve on the board of directors of The Connecticut Community Nonprofit Alliance and advocate for resources with policymakers.
In my personal life, I serve on the board of directors of Minnechaug Land Trust as the secretary.
On the Job
Guiding business principle: Stay true to your values and the mission of the organization.
Best way to keep your competitive edge: Listen to what others are telling you and be humble.
Best business decision: Focusing on growth to become large enough to weather the ups and downs of unpredictable funding. Keeping our eye on the quality of services at the same time we are growing.
Worst business decision: Taking on contracts that do not fully pay for the cost of care.
Biggest missed opportunity: Taking more vacations!
Goal yet to be achieved: A budget of $100 million.
Personal touch in your office: Artwork done by individuals with mental health challenges.
Personal Side
Favorite way to relax: Having dinner with friends.
Hobbies: Gardening, reading and hiking
Last vacation: Trip to Idaho to visit my son.
Favorite movie: “The Color Purple”
The car you drive: Volvo
Currently reading: “The House of Doors,” by Tan Twan Eng
Favorite cause: Mental well-being and the environment
Second choice career: Engineering